Never Take a Bear to School

Interestingly textured scenes of amazement and alarm, together with a funny rhythmic narrative, explore the possible outcomes of ignoring the title’s instruction in this starting school book.

A bear at school is an enormous ‘no’ for a whole host of reasons – the size and suitability of the furniture therein, the amount of noise he’ll make, his inappropriate table manners and most important, the fear he might engender among the children. Each of these scenarios and others are amusing portrayed by Britta Teckentrup as she places her huge ursine character amid the small pupils who are just finding their feet in a new environment, concerned with such matters as meeting a new teacher, making new friends and sampling the delights of picture making, a PE session, story time and role play.

Much better then to savour all those activities sans bear and wait until the end of the day when perhaps a certain furry friend awaits you at the school gate, and recount them on the way back home when you can give each other your undivided attention.

Yes, the rhyme is a bit suspect on occasion, but nonetheless, this is a lovely, warm-hearted story to share with those soon to make the transition from nursery or playgroup to school.